RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - A lawmaker from the House of Representatives’ Commission VIII, Selly Andriany Gantina, highlighted potential obstacles to repatriating Indonesian pilgrims in 2026. She said disruptions could occur if major flights are affected by escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

Selly urged the government to finalize alternative scenarios for repatriating pilgrims in case of flight interruptions. “Currently, Indonesian Hajj flights are served by two major airlines, Garuda Indonesia and Saudi Arabian Airlines,” she said on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.

She also warned of the possibility of rising operational costs for the 2026 Hajj. This could happen if flight routes change and travel times increase. “Operational costs are certain to increase significantly,” she said, adding that foreign airlines may not agree to reschedule longer routes without additional charges.

Selly emphasized that Commission VIII will continue to oversee the implementation of the Hajj pilgrimage to ensure the government’s active involvement in protecting Indonesian pilgrims. “The Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages are not merely spiritual journeys, but also involve cross-border public service management,” she said.

According to her, government preparedness in facing crisis scenarios is part of its constitutional responsibility.

Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak, previously stated that the government is preparing several scenarios for the 2026 Hajj following increased tensions in the Middle East.

He added that the Ministry will focus on building intensive communication with the Government of Saudi Arabia. “We want to obtain as much detailed information as possible regarding the implementation of the 2026 Hajj,” Dahnil said. (Gusti Panji/Lasti Martina)